Experts continuously caution against donning apparel straight off the rack — especially if it hails from a second-hand outlet.
One unfortunate soul, however, discovered this truth in an excruciating way.
As per Jam Press, a TikTok user known online as @onenevertwhoo_one shared a sobering revelation after contracting a skin disease suspected to stem from never-laundered thrifted garments.
In a now-widely circulated clip, he exposed his diagnosis: molluscum contagiosum — a viral affliction marked by tiny, elevated nodules across the skin’s surface.
Though these lesions may appear distressing, NeedToKnow reports the ailment is fundamentally benign and typically demands no medical intervention.
While this viral intruder frequently spreads via direct physical or intimate interaction, the TikToker attributes his breakout to neglected pre-wash practices involving second-hand clothing.
His presumption isn’t far-fetched. Frances Kozen, a senior lecturer from Cornell University specializing in fiber science and garment engineering, told *Self* magazine that many outfits are often laced with chemicals — softeners, stain-guards, water-resistant sprays, or anti-fungal agents — which could provoke dermal flare-ups, itching, or severe discomfort.
The candid confession triggered a digital avalanche — millions watched, thousands chimed in.
Some expressed heartfelt support: “Wishing you a fast recovery and full health again.”
Others, however, were baffled by his oversight.
“Why skip washing them in the first place?” one viewer questioned.
“Just unlocked a whole new terror,” added another.
“I’m shaking — someone actually wore store clothes straight outta the bag?” a user commented in disbelief.
Adding to the urgency, NYC board-certified dermatologist Dr. Charles Puza chimed in through his own TikTok dispatch. He stressed that rinsing garments before wearing is crucial, especially those acquired from rapid-production retailers like Shein and Temu.
“They harbor residues you don’t want mingling with your skin,” he warned sternly.
What’s more, molluscum contagiosum isn’t the lone dermal peril linked to unworn, unwashed attire. Medical professionals caution that ringworm — another transmissible condition — also lurks as a hidden threat.
Mayo Clinic underscores that ringworm infects the skin’s uppermost layer, manifesting as an itchy, flaky rash — and it spreads with alarming ease.
The CDC echoes the concern: “Ringworm can transmit through garments, towels, or bedding contaminated by someone already infected, especially if those items remain unclean.”
So, if an individual tries on an outfit harboring fungal spores and you purchase that same item without laundering, you’ve inadvertently invited the same skin irritant into your life.